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Introduction:
In a rain-affected thriller at the T20 World Cup, Afghanistan emerged victorious over Bangladesh to secure their first-ever semi-final spot in the tournament’s history. Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Afghanistan posted a competitive total of 115 for 5, thanks to a late surge by Rashid Khan. Despite interruptions from the weather, Afghanistan’s bowlers, led by Naveen-ul-Haq and Rashid Khan, managed to keep Bangladesh at bay, ultimately sealing a memorable win. This historic victory not only highlights Afghanistan’s strategic prowess but also marks a significant milestone in their cricketing journey.
Toss and Team Changes
Afghanistan won the toss and chose to bat first, a decision influenced by the surface and conditions as per Rashid Khan’s assessment. Despite the temptation to bring in experienced Najibullah Zadran, they opted to persist with the inexperienced Nangeyalia Kharote, who bowls left-arm spin and can bat. Bangladesh, on the other hand, were content with bowling first and brought back Taskin Ahmed and Soumya Sarkar in place of Jaker Ali and Mahedi Hasan.
Afghanistan’s Batting Performance
The surface was expected to slow down, and Rashid Khan emphasized the importance of not aiming too high while batting first. Afghanistan’s openers, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, aimed to set a steady tone, a strategy that had worked for them throughout the tournament. They have three century stands in this competition alone, more than any other pair for any wicket in a series in men’s T20I cricket.
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First 10 Overs: A Steady Start
Afghanistan’s approach was methodical as they reached 23 for 0 after 5 overs. Both Gurbaz and Zadran ran singles well, though there were numerous play-and-miss instances. Tanzim Hasan and Taskin Ahmed got enough swing with the new ball, but Shakib Al Hasan almost broke the opening stand when Zadran’s shot was not caught by Towhid Hridoy at short cover.
Middle Overs: Bangladesh’s Fightback
At 59 for 1 after 10.4 overs, Bangladesh managed to apply pressure. Rishad Hossain found grip and turn in his first over, leading to Zadran’s dismissal when he attempted an aerial shot. Taskin Ahmed then bowled a maiden over to Gurbaz, and Shakib kept it tight. This momentum slowed Afghanistan, who found runs hard to come by.
Final Overs: Rain and Rashid’s Late Surge
Afghanistan finished their innings at 115 for 5, with Rashid Khan scoring a crucial 19 off 10 balls, including three sixes in the final over bowled by Tanzim. This late surge brought them to a defendable total just as rain began to fall, delaying the start of Bangladesh’s chase.
Bangladesh’s Chase: Rain-Interrupted Drama
The rain delayed the start of Bangladesh’s innings, crucially keeping the overs intact. Bangladesh needed to chase 116 in 12.1 overs, with varying targets depending on potential further rain interruptions.
Early Wickets: Afghanistan Strikes
Farooqi provided an early breakthrough, trapping Tanzid leg before with a sharply swinging delivery. Naveen-ul-Haq then took the key wickets of Shanto and Shakib in quick succession, leaving Bangladesh struggling at 24 for 3 in 3 overs.
Mid-Innings: Afghanistan’s Tight Grip
Despite a couple of rain intervals, Afghanistan’s bowlers managed to maintain control. Rashid Khan dismissed Sarkar, reducing Bangladesh to 51 for 4 after 7 overs. With every ball becoming critical for both sides, Afghanistan’s bowlers created opportunities, albeit some were missed due to fielding errors and wet conditions.
Late Drama: Litton’s Lone Fight
Litton Das tried to keep Bangladesh in the hunt, hitting crucial boundaries off Rashid Khan. However, consistent wickets fell at the other end. Mahmudullah and others couldn’t provide the support needed, and the DLS par score kept looming over Bangladesh.
Naveen-ul-Haq, with his four wickets, was named Player of the Match, highlighting his pivotal role in Afghanistan’s victory.
Conclusion: Afghanistan’s Dramatic Win
In the end, Bangladesh’s innings concluded at 91 for 9 after 14.1 overs, falling short of the DLS par score of 96. Afghanistan’s bowlers, particularly Rashid Khan and Naveen-ul-Haq, delivered under pressure, leading their team to a historic World Cup semi-final spot for the first time.
